Aiyedatiwa honours late ex-Gov Akeredolu, reflects on legacy

By Boye Oyeyemi

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday paid tribute to his late predecessor, Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, on what would have been his 70th birthday, describing him as a courageous leader whose legacy continues to inspire the state.

In a goodwill message on Tuesday, marking Akeredolu’s 70th posthumous birthday, Aiyedatiwa joined the former governor’s family, the people of Ondo State and admirers across Nigeria in celebrating his life, achievements and enduring contributions to public service.

The governor said Akeredolu’s ideals, courage, conviction and unwavering commitment to the development of Ondo State remained a source of inspiration, noting that the late governor served the state with uncommon boldness and an uncompromising commitment to justice.

“Today, I join the Akeredolu family, the people of Ondo State, and countless admirers across Nigeria in celebrating the life and legacy of my leader, mentor, and immediate predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, on what would have been his 70th birthday,” Aiyedatiwa said.

Reflecting on their relationship, the governor expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve under Akeredolu’s administration, saying the confidence reposed in him by the late governor helped shape his leadership style and approach to public service.

“I remain profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have served alongside him. His confidence in me, his guidance, and the responsibilities entrusted to me remain enduring lessons that continue to shape my approach to leadership and public service,” he stated.

Aiyedatiwa also reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining the developmental vision initiated by Akeredolu, stressing that his administration would continue to build on the foundation laid by the former governor for a safer, stronger and more prosperous Ondo State.

“As we honour his memory today, I reaffirm my commitment to building on the foundation he laid and to sustaining the vision of a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Ondo State for the benefit of all our people. On his 70th posthumous birthday anniversary, I pray that Almighty God grants him eternal rest and comforts his family and all who continue to cherish his memory. Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, your legacy lives on,” the governor added.